Imagine waking up in a centuries-old castle, enjoying breakfast overlooking the beautiful Irish countryside and spending your evening beside a roaring fire in an elegant drawing room. Ireland offers some truly spectacular castle hotels where historic charm meets modern luxury.
Whether you’re exploring Ireland on one of our rail tours, enjoying the freedom of our selection of self-drive vacations or travelling in style with one of our beloved private chauffeurs, we have the castle stay for you! One of our most popular castle requests is to fit a castle stay for just a night or two into a bespoke itinerary. Of course nothing stops you from doing castles all the way!
It’s a wonderful way to experience genuine Irish hospitality, step back in time and enjoy the unique atmosphere and history that make Ireland so special. Here are just 5 of our favourites that can appeal to all budgets.
Set amid approximately 100 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, Cabra Castle is a wonderful introduction to Ireland’s castle hospitality. Dating back to the early 19th century in its present form, the castle has a fascinating history and has been lovingly transformed into a luxurious hotel.
Inside, you’ll discover antique furnishings, elegant interiors, four-poster beds and impressive reception rooms. Its location beside Dun a Rí Forest Park also makes it an excellent base for exploring Ireland’s Ancient East.
For a taste of old-world Irish charm, Ballyseede Castle is hard to beat. Located just outside Tralee, this beautiful castle hotel sits within 30 acres of private gardens and woodland.
Dating back to around 1760, Ballyseede has been home to the Blennerhassett family and retains much of its historic character. Guests can enjoy elegant dining, afternoon tea, cosy interiors and beautifully appointed bedrooms. Keep an eye out for stories of Hilda, the castle’s famous resident ghost!
It is also ideally positioned for exploring the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula and Killarney National Park.
Located beside the beautiful waters of Lough Eske with the Bluestack Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop, Lough Eske Castle offers one of Ireland’s most luxurious castle experiences.
The castle’s history is closely connected to the powerful O’Donnell clan who once ruled much of Donegal. The present Victorian Gothic-style building dates to the 1860s and has welcomed notable guests over the years, including Oscar Wilde.
Today, this five-star retreat combines historic architecture with contemporary comforts. Guests can enjoy an award-winning spa, exceptional dining, beautiful woodland walks and the peaceful surroundings of the Donegal countryside.
If spectacular scenery is high on your wish list, Ballynahinch Castle is a must to stay. Buried in the heart of Connemara, this magnificent castle hotel is surrounded by 700 acres of woodland, rivers and mountains. What also adds to this scenery is the Twelve Bens mountains creating an unforgettable backdrop.
The castle has a fascinating past with connections to the legendary pirate queen Grace O’Malley who married Donal O’Flaherty in the 16th century. The present castle was built in 1756 and later became associated with Richard Martin, famously known as ‘Humanity Dick’ who founded the RSPCA.
Peaceful riverside walks, fishing, exceptional food and warm hospitality all which Connemara is renowned for.
Kinnitty Castle offers a truly atmospheric stay in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
The castle, which is located at the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains has a history stretching back centuries with connections to ancient monastic settlements, Norman invasions and powerful Irish families. The present Gothic Revival-style building was developed in the 19th century, before being destroyed during the Civil War in 1922 and subsequently rebuilt.
Today, its grand interiors, antique library, elegant drawing rooms and surrounding countryside make it a wonderful place to step back in time.
An Irish Castle Adventure
One of the best ways to experience Ireland is to combine two or three of these magnificent properties into a self-drive trip of Ireland.
Each castle offers something different, from fascinating history and beautiful architecture to exceptional food, welcoming hospitality and unforgettable scenery.
Contact us today to learn more about booking your adventure with us and including some or all of these castles.
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